The Senate on Monday approved a resolution authorizing the compulsory acquisition of a parcel of land on St. Mary’s Street to facilitate the construction of a secure access and exit route and supporting infrastructure for the National Performing Arts Centre.

The resolution, brought under Section 3 of the Land Acquisition Act, Cap. 233, authorizes the government to compulsorily acquire 0.05 acres of a 0.12-acre parcel after Cabinet determined the property was required for a public purpose.

According to the resolution, Cabinet made the determination during its June 10 meeting, concluding that the land is needed for the construction of a secure access and exit route and related public infrastructure serving the National Performing Arts Centre.

Under the Land Acquisition Act, the government must first obtain parliamentary approval before the Secretary to the Cabinet can issue a formal declaration that land is to be acquired for a public purpose. The Senate’s approval satisfies that statutory requirement and allows the acquisition process to proceed.

The land forms part of a larger 0.12-acre parcel located on St. Mary’s Street in the parish of St. John’s. Once acquired, it will be used to improve access to the National Performing Arts Centre and support the development of related public infrastructure.

The motion was seconded and approved by the Upper House without debate, paving the way for the government to proceed with the compulsory acquisition in accordance with the Land Acquisition Act.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: enate Approves Compulsory Acquisition of Land for National Performing Arts Centre.